The FBI is seeking DNA samples from Theodore Kaczynski, known as the Unabomber, and others for its investigation into the 1982 Tylenol poisonings in the Chicago area that killed seven people.

“As part of our re-examination of the evidence developed in connection with the 1982 Tylenol poisonings, we have attempted to secure DNA samples from numerous individuals, including Ted Kaczynski," the FBI said in a statement this morning. "To date, Mr. Kaczynski has declined to voluntarily provide this sample. "The investigation into the Tylenol murders remains ongoing. No arrests have been made and no charges have been filed.” FBI spokeswoman Cynthia Yates would not say why the government would not already have his DNA on file.

The FBI's interest in Kaczynski was first disclosed by Kaczynski himself in court papers filed in federal court in California last week to block a federal auction of his possessions. Kaczynski said prison officials in Colorado visited him three weeks ago with the FBI's request.

Kaczynski, 69, who is serving a life sentence at a "supermax" prison in Florence, Colo., wrote that "the FBI wanted a sample of my DNA to compare with some partial DNA profiles connected with a 1982 event in which someone put potassium cyanide in Tylenol."

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Seven people -- four women, two men, and a 12-year-old girl -- died in 1982 after taking Extra-Strength Tylenol capsules that had been purchased from drug stores and groceries in the Chicago area. Someone had opened the capsules and replaced some of the acetaminophen with cyanide and returned them to the shelves. The murders caused widespread panic and led to tamper-resistant wrappings becoming the norm on food and medical products.

More at LINK (http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/breaking/chibrknews-unabomber-fbi-wants-my-dna-in-tylenol-probe-20110519,0,7308025.story)

KhrushchevsShoe

05-19-2011, 07:04 PM

I dont remember this, but I remember whatever-her-name going on a total rampage in the burbs and them thinking it was her for the longest time.

Odysseus

05-19-2011, 08:40 PM

I remember it. It was a terrifying event, and Tylenol sales plummeted until they developed the new packaging. It was a horrific, cowardly act, and if Ted K was involved, then he deserves to fry for it.